# Andhra Pradesh Reservoirs Reach 505.76 TMC Following Heavy Cyclone Rains

Recent cyclonic activity significantly boosts water storage levels across major Andhra Pradesh reservoirs.

- **Source:** [The Hindu – National](https://www.thehindu.com/news/national)
- **Published:** 2026-11-06
- **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business)
- **Original article:** <https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/reservoirs-in-andhra-pradesh-hold-50576-tmc-after-heavy-rains/article71674522.ece>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/db7e3305-f02e-4137-bce3-7b6e0e5f0589

## Significant Water Storage Increase

Heavy rainfall triggered by cyclones Murasu and Arnab has substantially improved water availability across Andhra Pradesh. As of November 6, 2026, the combined active storage in tracked reservoirs reached 505.76 thousand million cubic feet. This influx marks a notable shift in the state's water reserves following the recent intense weather events.

## Capacity and Flood Cushion

The state's reservoirs have a total Full Reservoir Level capacity of 1,161.36 thousand million cubic feet. With current levels at 505.76 TMC, there remains a significant flood cushion of 655.59 TMC. This capacity is vital for managing future inflows and ensuring that sudden water releases do not cause downstream flooding issues.

## Regional Storage Disparities Observed

Coastal Andhra reservoirs currently hold 343.18 TMC against a total capacity of 682.05 TMC, reflecting the concentration of rainfall in coastal districts. In contrast, Rayalaseema reservoirs hold 125.47 TMC out of their 373.52 TMC capacity. These figures highlight the uneven distribution of rainfall across the state's diverse geographical zones during the cyclones.

## Major Barrage Inflow Metrics

River barrages are experiencing high inflow rates due to the recent storms. The Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage on the Godavari River is recording an inflow of approximately 79,911 cusecs. Meanwhile, the Prakasam Barrage on the Krishna River reports an inflow of 39,875 cusecs, indicating active water movement through the state's primary river systems.

## Impoundment at Pulichinthala Project

The Pulichinthala project is currently managing significant water volumes, with inflows measured at 8,583 cusecs. In contrast, the outflow is maintained at only 400 cusecs. This operational strategy demonstrates that authorities are actively impounding a substantial portion of the incoming water to bolster reserves for the upcoming agricultural season's irrigation requirements.

## Agricultural and Safety Outlook

Water Resources Department officials emphasize that these improved storage levels provide a strategic opportunity to conserve water for the ensuing agricultural season. Maintaining an adequate flood cushion remains a priority to regulate inflows effectively. This dual approach aims to balance the need for irrigation water with necessary flood prevention safety measures.

## Context of Cyclonic Impact

The recent weather patterns, specifically cyclones Murasu and Arnab, have played a decisive role in altering the state's hydrological profile. Such events are critical for replenishing reservoirs that serve as the backbone for regional agriculture. The current data provides a snapshot of how infrastructure manages sudden, high-volume water inputs during extreme weather.

## Future Monitoring Requirements

Moving forward, officials will continue to monitor reservoir levels closely to manage the remaining 655.59 TMC of flood cushion capacity. The ability to regulate inflows at major barrages will be essential for downstream safety. Stakeholders remain focused on optimizing water usage while staying prepared for any potential additional rainfall in the coming weeks.

## Sources covering this story

- https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/reservoirs-in-andhra-pradesh-hold-50576-tmc-after-heavy-rains/article71674522.ece — 

---

_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._
